An Infant Momma’s Guide to Getting Out The Door {and looking like you tried!}

First of all…allow me to introduce you to my inspiration for this post…

Owen Robert, born November 21st. All 9lbs 1oz of him! (please don’t pin this picture, thanks!)

So, here I am. The momma to a newborn. That means spending the day in bed and relaxing, right? Oh…wait. I have a 4 year old, too! And errands to run, and places to go, and gymnastics to get to. Confession: I’m not very good at the whole “have a baby, stay in bed” thing. Let’s be honest. Even if you are great at the whole “have a baby, stay in bed” thing, there will come a time when you need to actually leave the house. You will be tired, possibly showered, and trying to make sure the large list of things that newborns need to get out the door is actually in the diaper bag. Lets not make getting dressed any more complicated than it needs to be!

1. A nursing tank top: I’m a huge fan of these. I tried a nursing bra and nursing tops with my daughter, but I always felt like it was just too many layers to deal with. My favorite nursing tanks come from Target and are surprisingly supportive (something I need!). They also work well under shirts that are not so nursing friendly, since they cover your tummy if you have to lift your shirt.

2. Yoga Pants: You’re at this really “awesome” point where the maternity clothes are too big and the pre-baby jeans are too small, right? This is one of the few non-pregnant times that pants with a stretchy waistband are socially acceptable. Embrace the yoga pants, ladies! Go get a nice new pair!

3. A neutral cardigan: Throw one of these on over a nursing tank and you’re practically good to go! Cardigans can be dressed up and down, so they’re a great no-brainer option!

4. Black flats: Simple, slip-ons with just a bit of dressiness to them. Keep them by the door and you’ll always be ready to go! I love these ones with the little bit of shine on the toes. So cute!

5. A neutral zip-up sweatshirt: This as another no-brainer top layer, but with a more casual spin.

6. Simple sneakers: I love me some Chuck Taylors! I prefer gray ones over black, but you rock whatever you want!

7. A pretty scarf (or 5!): Can you ever really have too many scarves? I think not. A scarf is really to key to this whole ensemble. One, its another no-brainer accessory. Two, even newborns have grabby hands. Necklaces are a no-go, but scarves are all good! Three, if you prefer to cover up when nursing in public, you don’t have to dig through the diaper bag for a cover. Your scarf pulls double duty!

8. Pretty Earrings: Something so simple can make you feel so put together. I really like this pair. Sort of a step up from basic studs, but not over done.

9: A statement bracelet: If you’re anything like me, the sleeves of your long sleeve shirts get pushed up to your elbows in about 6.2 seconds. I have found a great cuff bracelet to be another thing that really finishes an outfit without thinking too hard about it.

Ok, so clothes are covered. Now we need a make-up routine that’s just as simple. After all, you’re outfit looks like you’re well rested and put together. Shouldn’t your face look the same way? Absolutely.

1. Simple eyeshadow: You guys. This eye primer by Bare Escentuals is amazing. Its more than just a primer, it actually has some pigment to it, so it doubles as eye shadow. It stays put all day. This stuff lasts for.EV.er! Plus, if you’re feeling super ambitious, you can layer darker colors over it for a fancier look. I got a sample size of this stuff, and it lasted me almost 4 months!

2. Tinted moisturizer: I’m a big fan of Olay BB Cream right now. Just enough coverage to balance out the hormonal skin, but not super heavy.

3. Tinted Lip Balm: I am terribly pick about what I wear on my lips. It can’t be too heavy, too sticky, too dry…you get it. I have fallen in love with L’Oreal’s Color Riche Balm. It’s so soft and smooth, and gives just a hint of color. It fits my budget, too, so that’s great!

4. Mascara: Nothing will make you look awake faster than some good mascara. I am a die hard Cover Girl Lash Blast fan, but you use whatever your favorite is!

That’s it! You’ll be looking good and ready to head out the door in a matter of minutes. These simple formulas will give you tons of functional options, and make your life easier!